Needless to state, India has over 1000+ beautiful villages. Village tourism is emerging in the most beautiful villages in India to enjoy the countryside tradition, culture, greenery, routine, culinary experience, explore places, and stay. A village vacation is cheaper as you get to stay in affordable hamlets. Experience a bullock cart ride, trek along the winding roads, shower under waterfalls, and enjoy mouth-watering dishes to rowing along the river in a boat; a village will surprise you each time you pay a visit.
If you are on a holiday expedition and wondering about places to explore, there are 16 villages you can enjoy as follows:
16 Most Beautiful Villages in India:
If you are on a holiday expedition and wondering about places to explore, there are 16 villages you can enjoy as follows:
1. Malana, Himachal Pradesh – Richest Village in India
Malana is one of India’s richest villages in terms of democracy and an ancient village of India in the Himachal Pradesh state. It is known for its World’s oldest democracy. It is located in Kullu valley’s northeastern region. The people of Malana (Malanis) love their culture and belief in their religion. The village is known for Malana cream, which is produced from plants of cannabis found in Parvati valley. Your itinerary must comprise the following that is 20- 40 km in and around Malana village.
When we talk about best villages to live in India, Malana definitely stands out because of its unique traditions, self-governing system, and breathtaking natural beauty that attracts travelers and researchers alike.
- Jamadagni Temple
- Renuka Devi Shrine Temple
- The Chanderkheni trail
- The Deo Tibba Mountain
- The Hampta Pass
- Manikaran
- The Great Himalayan National Park
- Parvati Valley
- The Sar Pass Trek
- Bhuntar
| Malana Village Location | Located in Kullu Tehsil of Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Best Time to Visit Malana Village | April to October |
| Malana’s Nearest Town | Manali |
| How to Reach Malana | Nearest airport: Bhuntar (48 km), nearest railway: Joginder Nagar, then 4 km trek |
| Stay Options | Homestays and guesthouses in Jari or Kasol |
| Local Food | Siddu, red rice, Madra |
| Travel Tip | Carry warm clothes and trekking shoes |
2. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya – Cleanest Village in India
As you go 90 km south of Shillong located on the Indo-Bangla border, one of India’s cleanest villages, Mawlynnong, will touch your feet. Enjoy the living bridge that is over 1000 years old by trekking from Mawlynnong. You can enjoy pleasant weather in Mawlynnong throughout the year. Take pleasure in homestays with rural culture and tradition to behold. Places to see in Mawlynnong within a radius of 30 km are as follows-
- Skywalk
- Church Of Epiphany
- Balancing Rock
- Dawki
- Byrdaw Falls
- Rymben Falls
| Mawlynnong Village Location | 90 km away from Shillong in the East Khasi Hills district |
| Best Time to Visit Mawlynnong Village | October and April |
| Mawlynnong Village’s Nearest Town | Shillong |
| How to Reach Mawlynnong | Nearest airport: Shillong, nearest railway: Guwahati, 170 km |
| Stay Options | Homestays run by local Khasi families |
| Local Food | Jadoh, Tungrymbai, Dohneiiong |
| Travel Tip | Carry raincoat; do not litter |
3. Ziro Village, Arunachal Pradesh – Famous Village in India
Ziro village is one of the ancient towns in Arunachal Pradesh. It is a picturesque and most beautiful village in India situated 100 km from the capital of Arunachal Pradesh with greenery around it. This is known for ‘The Ziro festival of music and paddy-cum-pisciculture cultivation. It is a must-watch experience. Lust green paddy fields surround the Ziro village. Places to see around a radius of 30 km in Ziro are as follows-
- Talley Valley Wildlife sanctuary
- Orchid Research Center
- Shiva Linga
- Kile Pakho
- Tarin Fish Farm
- Dolo Mando
- Pine Grove
- Town Baptist Church
- Mary Immaculate Catholic Church
| Ziro Village Location | Situated at an altitude of 5600 ft above sea level in the Lower Subansari district of Arunachal Pradesh |
| Best Time to Visit Ziro Village | March to October |
| Ziro’s Nearest Town | Itanagar |
| How to Reach Ziro | Nearest airport: Lilabari (Assam), nearest railway: Naharlagun |
| Stay Options | Homestays and eco camps |
| Local Food | Rice beer, Apong, bamboo shoot dishes |
| Travel Tip | Carry ILP; comfortable shoes for festival trekking |
4. Nako, Lahaul Spiti – One of the Last Villages of India
Nako, Lahaul Spiti on the Tibetan border, is said to be one of the last villages of India in north near the Indo-China border. It beholds the ancient monastery. The area is apt for trekking. It’s located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Travelers often count this serene place among the best villages to visit in India because of its untouched charm. This Indian beautiful village is known for its variety of plant species such as alpine scrubs, conifers, etc. Enjoy the countryside along Tashigang village with a picturesque view. Keep your schedule ready by visiting-
- Tabo, a UNESCO heritage site
- Enjoy the highest village in the World, Kibber
- Nako Knaygoh Kinner Camp
| Nako Village Location | located near the Indo-China border in the Trans-Himalayan region of Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh |
| Best Time to Visit Nako Village | May to October |
| Nako’s Nearest Town | Lahaul Spiti |
| How to Reach Nako | Nearest airport: Bhuntar, nearest railway: Joginder Nagar, then road journey via Kaza |
| Stay Options | Guesthouses and campsites |
| Local Food | Thukpa, momos, barley bread |
| Travel Tip | Carry warm clothes and trekking gear |
5. Lamayuru Village, Leh – India’s Most Beautiful Village
Lamayuru is a beautiful village between Kargil and Leh with shades of white, gray, and brown and bestowed with well-preserved stupas. Lamayuru, or Yuru Monastery, is a famous Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Lamayuru is famous for its lunar landscape and is promoted as a moonscape for visitors. Tourists visit the town to find solace. The place is said to have the oldest and largest monasteries. Plan your vacation in July to enjoy the energy of the Yuru Kabgyat festival. The following must come on your bucket list-
- Fotu La
- Indus Valley
- Stupas in Lamayuru
- Nubra Valley
- Aghar Jitto
- Yusmarg
- Wanla Monastery
- Moonland
- Ulleytokpo
- Themisgam
- Meditation Hill
| Lamayuru Village Location | Located in Khalsi tehsil of Leh district in Jammu & Kashmir, India |
| Best Time to Visit Lamayuru Village | May to September |
| Lamayuru’s Nearest Town | Jammu |
| How to Reach Lamayuru | Nearest airport: Leh, nearest railway: Jammu Tawi, then road journey |
| Stay Options | Guesthouses, homestays, and monastery stays |
| Local Food | Thukpa, momos, butter tea |
| Travel Tip | Carry sunscreen, hats, and warm clothes due to high altitude |
6. Kollengode Village, Palakkad Kerala – Unique Village in India
Kollengode village has one of the largest communities of blacksmiths in India. The name ‘Kollengode’ is derived from the word ‘Kollen,’ meaning blacksmith. It is often mentioned among the famous villages in India for its traditional craftsmanship and heritage. Kollengode is located 25 km from Palakkad and 350 km northeast of Thiruvananthapuram, a state capital. This beautiful village is very famous for the Kollengode palace, archaic Vishnu temple, culture and food cuisines of Kerala, and ancient Palakkad Fort. Your rejoicing listing should hold-
- The Kollengode Palace
- Seethakundu and Govindamalai for trekking
- Pollachi market
| Kollengode village Location | Located in Chittur taluka of Palakkad district in Kerala, India |
| Best Time to Visit Kollengode village | December to February |
| Kollengode’s Nearest Town | Chittur |
| How to Reach Kollengode | Nearest airport: Coimbatore, nearest railway: Palakkad |
| Stay Options | Heritage hotels and homestays |
| Local Food | Kerala Sadya, Malabar snacks, Tapioca dishes |
| Travel Tip | Best to explore by car or local transport |
Also Read: Must-Try Adventure Sports in Kerala You Shouldn’t Miss
7. Yana, Karnataka – One of the Cleanest Villages in India
If you have yet to witness what towering monolithic rock formations look like, it is time to head to Yana in Karnataka. This hamlet has nestled 40 km from Gokarna. This one of the most beautiful villages of India is located in Kumta forests, Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. The rural place is famous for overhanging rocks that lead to the cave of Shiva Lingam. It is one trekking expedition! Make a list of eye-catching sites such as-
- Vibhuti waterfalls
- Yana Rocks
- Yana Caves
| Location of Yana Village | Located in Uttara Kannada district of the Indian state of Karnataka |
| Best Time to Visit Yana Village | October to March |
| Yana’s Nearest Town | Kumta |
| How to Reach Yana | Nearest airport: Goa (approx. 160 km), nearest railway: Kumta |
| Stay Options | Guesthouses and homestays |
| Local Food | Udupi cuisine, local fish dishes |
| Travel Tip | Wear comfortable shoes for trekking |
Also Read: Best Tourist Places to Visit in Coorg with Family
8. Landour, Uttarakhand – Old Indian Village
Home to Blue Umbrella author Ruskin Bond, an Indian author’s home, is an attractive tourist destination. Landour is one of the cantonment villages made by the British army in the state of Uttarakhand. Landour is blessed with unflustered mountains and offers several trekking joints. Landour offers homestays to enjoy the tradition of simple living. Seek tranquility in the midst of-
- Ivy Cottage, the spot where Ruskin Bond wrote his books
- Char Dukan Area, historic mystic shops
- Kellogg’s Memorial Church and Language School
- Lal Tibba
- ST. Paul’s Church
- Trekking in Nag Tibba
Overview of Landour:
| Location of Landour Village | Located about 35 km from Dehradun in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India |
| Best Time to Visit Landour Village | April to June and September to November |
| Landour’s Nearest Town | Mussoorie |
| How to Reach Landour | Nearest airport: Dehradun, nearest railway: Dehradun |
| Stay Options | Homestays and hotels |
| Local Food | Bakery items, Garhwali dishes |
| Travel Tip | Comfortable walking shoes recommended |
Must Read: Top-Rated Places to Visit in Uttarakhand For a Splendid Vacation
9. Kuttanad Village, Alappuzha – Largest Village of India
The rice bowl of Kerala, Kuttanad, is one of India’s biggest villages holding 20% of India’s waterways by length. The belt is famous for its backwater experience, rivers, and canals. It is incredible to watch how farming takes place below sea level. Kuttanad is known for its unique culture and lifestyle. Your experience should include the following-
- Houseboat cruising
- Punnamada Lake
- Pampa river
| Location of Kuttanad Village | Located in Kuttanad taluka of Alappuzha district in Kerala, India |
| Best Time to Visit Kuttanad Village | October to March |
| Kuttanad’s Nearest Town | Alappuzha |
| How to Reach Kuttanad | Nearest airport: Kochi, nearest railway: Alappuzha |
| Stay Options | Houseboats, homestays, resorts |
| Local Food | Kerala Sadya, fish curry, tapioca |
| Travel Tip | Best to travel by boat or bicycle |
10. Munsiyari, Kumaon – Most Beautiful Village in India
The greenery suburb Munsiyari is routed on the ancient Salt route to Tibet. Kumaon hills, dense forests, and the Gori Ganga River nestle Munsiyari. Munsiyari is a popular hill station, and one of the well-known destinations for nature lovers. You can enjoy the village life as you begin trekking to Khuliya Top. Keep your cameras ready to click the following cherishing moments around Munsiyari-
- Glacier treks to Milam and Ratlam
- Panchachuli peaks
- Birthi, Kalamuni Top is 9500 feet tall
- Kali Temple
- Khuliya Top
- Birthi falls
- Maheshwari Kund
| Location of Munsiyari Village | Located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand |
| Best Time to Visit Munsiyari Village | March to June & September to October |
| Munsiyari’s Nearest Town | Pithoragarh |
| How to Reach Munsiyari | Nearest airport: Pantnagar, nearest railway: Kathgodam |
| Stay Options | Guesthouses, homestays, camping |
| Local Food | Kumaoni dishes, rice, lentils, gahat |
| Travel Tip | Warm clothes for early mornings |
11. Bandarpunch Village, Uttarakhand – Unique Village in India
The village Bandarpunch, meaning ‘monkey’s tail,’ lies in the western Garhwal area of Uttarakhand. It is a famous glacier situated 6316 m above sea level. The glacier is said to feed the river Ganga and Yamuna and has its own village life. The people reap the benefits of the beauty and live a holistic lifestyle. It is best to visit from March to October. You will be able to witness the flowers and rare species of animals. Hiking to Bandarpunch glacier is effortless as camping sites, stays, and arrangements are available.
| Location of Bandarpunch Village | Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand |
| Best Time to Visit Bandarpunch Village | March to May & September to November |
| Bandarpunch’s Nearest Town | Chakrata |
| How to Reach Bandarpunch | Nearest airport: Dehradun, nearest railway: Dehradun |
| Stay Options | Camps and trekking lodges |
| Local Food | Simple local vegetarian dishes |
| Travel Tip | Carry trekking gear and warm clothes |
12. Valparai, Tamil Nadu – Most Beautiful Village in India
If you are someone fan of wildlife photography, you have come to the right place, which is 150 m above sea level in the Coimbatore district. Valparai offers an exquisite wildlife experience. It is one of the most beautiful villages of India, with beautiful roads, waterfalls, greenery, tea estates, and a trekking experience. Your listing should have-
- Stroll in the tea estates
- Wildlife photography
- Upper Near the dam
- Aliyar dam
- Sholayar dam
- Monkey falls
- Loam’s viewpoint
- Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park
- Grass hills
| Location of Valparai Village | Located at 1500 meters above sea level in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu |
| Best Time to Visit Valparai Village | October to November & March to May |
| Valparai’s Nearest Town | Pollachi |
| How to Reach Valparai | Nearest airport: Coimbatore, nearest railway: Pollachi |
| Stay Options | Resorts, homestays, tea estate stays |
| Local Food | Tamil Nadu cuisine, local tea snacks |
| Travel Tip | Carry binoculars and cameras |
Also Read: Scenic Valparai Tourist Places in Tamil Nadu to Explore
13. Mana, Uttarakhand – The Last Village of India
India’s last village before heading to Tibet is the ‘Tourism village,’ rich with scenic beauty. It stands 3200 m above sea level in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Mana is where Pandavas from Mahabharata walked through the village before Bheem could build the bridge for river Saraswati for Draupadi to cross. The stay offers the following places to visit within the periphery of Mana-
- Trekking expedition
- Vasudhara falls
- Vishnuprayag
- Tapt Kund
- Badrinath temple
- Bheem Pul
| Location of Mana Village | Located in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district |
| Best Time to Visit Mana Village | May to early November |
| Mana’s Nearest Town | Haridwar |
| How to Reach Mana | Nearest airport: Jolly Grant (Dehradun), nearest railway: Rishikesh |
| Stay Options | Guesthouses and homestays |
| Local Food | Kumaoni dishes, lentils, rice |
| Travel Tip | Carry trekking shoes and warm clothes |
14. Bara Basti, Nagaland – Largest Village in India
Bara Basti is the biggest village in India and the second largest in Asia. The village was earlier known as Kewhira in 1878. Bara Basti came with the Angami people. It is divided into four clans. It is said to have seven gates and lakes in the village. The tourism in this place is the finest. The village opens its entrance with a ceremonial gate engraved with images of guns, warriors, and marks of prosperity. The suburb is famous for-
- War cemetery
- Catholic Church
- Dzukou valley
- Dzulekie, picnic spot for rainbows and Naga Bison
- Intangki Wildlife Sanctuary
| Location of Bara Basti Village | Located on a high hill away from Kohima city center in Nagaland |
| Best Time to Visit Bara Basti Village | October to March |
| Bara Basti’s Nearest Town | Kohima |
| How to Reach Bara Basti | Nearest airport: Dimapur, nearest railway: Dimapur |
| Stay Options | Guesthouses and homestays |
| Local Food | Naga cuisine, smoked meats, bamboo shoots |
| Travel Tip | Best to explore on foot or by local cabs |
15. Kalpa Village, Himachal Pradesh:
Kalpa is a small heritage village in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, located above Reckong Peo. It is famous for its apple orchards, wooden temples, and beautiful views of the snow-covered Kinner Kailash mountains. The sunrise and sunset here are very special and attract many travelers. Life in Kalpa is calm, traditional, and close to nature, making it a perfect place for peace seekers.
Must Visit:
- Narayan-Nagini Temple
- Hu-Bu-Lan-Car Gompa
- Sunrise view of Kinner Kailash
- Walks through apple orchards
| Kalpa Village Location | Sutlej river valley above Reckong Peo, Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh |
| Best Time to Visit Kalpa Village | March to June, September to October |
| Kalpa’s Nearest Town | Reckong Peo (3 km away) |
| How to Reach Kalpa | Nearest airport: Shimla (224 km), nearest railway: Shimla; connected by road from Shimla and Rampur |
| Stay Options | Homestays, guesthouses, and small hotels |
| Local Food | Simple vegetarian meals, Siddu, and fresh apples from orchards |
| Travel Tip | Carry warm clothes as nights are cold, even in summer |
16. Khimsar Village, Rajasthan:
Khimsar is a desert village located on the highway between Jodhpur and Bikaner in Rajasthan. It is known for the grand Khimsar Fort, which is now a heritage hotel, and for its golden sand dunes where tourists enjoy jeep and camel safaris. The village is surrounded by desert wildlife, small settlements, and traditional Rajasthani culture. It is a peaceful place to experience rural desert life along with royal hospitality.
Must Visit:
- Khimsar Fort
- Sand Dunes Village (camel/jeep safari)
- Panchala Blackbuck Reserve
- Nearby Nagaur Fort and Osian Temples
| Khimsar Village Location | Nagaur district, Rajasthan (between Jodhpur and Bikaner) |
| Best Time to Visit Khimsar Village | October to March |
| Khimsar’s Nearest Town | Jodhpur (100 km away) |
| How to Reach Khimsar | Nearest airport: Jodhpur (100 km), nearest railway: Jodhpur/Nagaur; well connected by road |
| Stay Options | Heritage palace hotels, dune huts, and guesthouses |
| Local Food | Dal-Baati-Churma, Ker-Sangri, Gatte ki Sabzi, Mirchi Bada, Jalebi |
| Travel Tip | Days are hot but nights are cool; carry light cotton clothes for day and warm layers for evening |
Read Also: Famous Forts and Palaces in Rajasthan That Every History Lover Must Visit
Wrapping Up:
A vacation or a tour is complete with memories to cherish. It must have all the components as a great stay, food, sightseeing, weather, some quiet time, and loads of pictures. Have your itinerary ready to know where to head and when. Check the best time to land at that place. Village stay surprises you and offers you the benefits of a great vacation; the experience and warmth of the people are immense. India has the unique villages in India. Whether a stay in hotels, villas, or countryside villages, a vacation with great memories is a forever joy. That’s all from my side. The ways mentioned here will help you easily find the most beautiful & picturesque villages In India for nature lovers. If you’re still stricken with doubts, shoot them in the comment below.
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FAQs About Most Beautiful Villages in India:
Mawlynnong in Meghalaya is called the cleanest and also one of the most beautiful villages. It has a living root bridge, waterfalls, and homestays where you can enjoy Khasi culture.
Ha is the smallest village, which is situated in Arunachal Pradesh under the Kurung Kumey district.
Sankri in Uttarakhand is the best village for trekking and nature lovers. It is the base camp for famous treks like Har Ki Dun and Kedarkantha, offering homestays and mountain views.
Madhapar is reportedly the richest village in India, which is located in the Kutch district of Gujarat.
Gahmar is the biggest village in India situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh in the Ghazipur district.
Mana in the state of Uttarakhand is the last village of India, located in the Chamoli district from the border of India and Tibet.
Yes, most of these villages have homestays, guesthouses, or eco-resorts. Staying there gives you a chance to enjoy simple village life and taste local food.
Beautiful villages show India’s true culture, traditions, and natural beauty. Unlike crowded cities, they offer peace, clean air, and experiences like trekking, boating, and cultural festivals.
